The soap star was set upon by a fan upset at his character’s on-screen affair with schoolgirl Rosie Webster .

The 36-year-old actor was set upon in a Manchester pub by a man ranting about the storyline, which involves 19-year-old actress Helen Flanagan .

The actor was put in a headlock, before other pub-goers dragged the assailant away.

Hawley said that a number of fans seem unable to distinguish between real life and soap story lines, adding: ‘It’s a constant issue, people giving their opinions on your character. It comes with the job.

‘You become a target in bars. I stayed away from pubs during the World Cup. I thought if England lose it would become my fault.’

Greater Manchester police said that they were not made aware of the incident.